On May 20, the individual time trial (stage 6) of the Amgen Tour of California will be held in Solvang for the fourth time in the six-year history of this professional cycling race. After hosting the time trial in 2007, 2008 and 2009, the Amgen Tour of California’s individual time trial returns to Solvang, the charming Danish-American village celebrating its 100th anniversary this year–that plays host annually to Pro Tour team training camps, as well as some of the largest amateur cycling events in the U.S.
With the start and finish lines located only one block apart, Stage 6 is an ideal location for spectators to view the individual time trial stage known as the “race of truth” where each cyclist races against the clock on a closed course.
Thursday morning in downtown Solvang, members of the volunteer Solvang Local Organizing Committee chaired by Max Hanberg and Carol Petersen (pictured left) revealed the new Solvang Stage 6 route map.
They were joined in the celebration by Santa Barbara County Third District Supervisor Doreen Farr, Solvang Mayor Jim Richardson, Solvang City Council Member Joan Jamieson and Solvang City Manager Brad Vidro. Along with Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau Executive Director Tracy Farhad who served as MC, they revealed a new Solvang Stage logo and merchandise, details on the Gala Celebration, Bike Raffle, the “Race of Truth” for amateurs, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities.
Farhad introduced Matthew Honeyman, a 14-year local cyclist that was inspired to start cycling after attending a Solvang School assembly featuring a pro-team two years ago—who will be raising funds to ride in the amateur race of truth. Farhad also introduced local resident and volunteer Nancy Sullivan, who is serving as the Solvang Breakaway from Cancer representative.
At 11:05am, more than 70 cyclists (the first 50 to sign in received deluxe jerseys donated by Rabobank) enjoyed the opportunity to “Ride the Route” in sunny 65-degree weather. The route highlights Solvang and the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, winding through quaint towns, vineyards, and farms, and one short but steep climb up Ballard Canyon. This year’s short (15 mile/24 km), flat and fast time trial will create a challenging test for the riders and is expected to be a decisive day of the race.
SOLVANG TIME TRIAL “TURN BY TURN” 15-MILE (24 km) ROUTE DETAILS:
Stage 6 Start at the Intersection of Mission Dr. (Hwy. 246) and 1st Street (at Solvang Park); Left on Alisal Road; Right on Viborg Road; Left on Alamo Pintado Road; Right on Baseline Avenue; Left on North Refugio Road; Left on Roblar Avenue. Short left onto Alamo Pintado Road; Sharp Right onto Santa Barbara Avenue; Left on Alamo Pintado Avenue; Right on Steele Street; Steele becomes Ballard Canyon Road; (Sharp left turn and begin climbing at 800 feet; Top of climb is 965 feet); head straight onto Chalk Hill Road; cross Fredensborg Canyon Road; now on Atterdag Road; pass Solvang School; Cross Mission Drive; Sharp Left on Copenhagen Drive. Finish Location is Copenhagen Dr and 1st Street.
